Daniel proved his perseverance at an early age. Diagnosed at age seven, he spent an entire year in the hospital. He would catch nearly every virus around him, causing painful diabetic ketoacidosis. The early onset of puberty made it hard for doctors to regiment his insulin due to uncontrollable hormones.

Daniel proved his perseverance at an early age. Diagnosed at age seven, he spent an entire year in the hospital. He would catch nearly every virus around him, causing painful diabetic ketoacidosis. The early onset of puberty made it hard for doctors to regiment his insulin due to uncontrollable hormones. Daniel missed a lot of school, and is now homeschooled to ensure his academic progress. He has bounced back from these challenges with fierce determination to play an active role in the fight against diabetes. "I want to…be the voice of kids my age," he says. Daniel is inspired by his mother, who works hard to ensure he lives a healthy and happy life. In addition to educating others about type 1 and participating in diabetes clinical trials and JDRF Walks, Daniel is involved in the Dayton Urban League Youth Forum and enjoys sports and writing music.